Five things you (probably) didn’t know about JJ Rawlings

Jerry John Rawlings, born on 22 June 1947, was the first president of the Fourth Republic of Ghana and founder of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Jerry John Rawlings emerged onto Ghana’s political landscape in 1979, at a time when Ghana was facing socio-economic decline.

Chairman Rawlings, as he is fondly referred to, won the hearts of Ghanaians with his compelling “Boom” speeches and his charismatic leadership style.

Here are five facts you probably didn’t know about Rawlings:

A skilled pilot and aerobatics enthusiast

Rawlings’s military career was marked by his talent as a pilot. Known for his daring maneuvers, he was a standout in aerobatics and loved thrill-seeking challenges in the sky. Fellow officers described him as a fearless aviator who pushed the limits, with this bravery later reflecting in his bold political moves.

A fan of Michael Jackson

The late Rawlings was a fan of Michael Jackson and they developed a friendship over the years, meeting on several occasions. Following Jackson’s death in 2009, Rawlings expressed his sorrow, stating that “The world lost one of its greatest sons,” highlighting the impact Jackson had on the world. His favorite songs included “They Don’t Care About Us” and “Heal the World.”

Hands-on agriculturalist

Beyond politics, Rawlings was a dedicated advocate for agriculture. He took this passion seriously, often working on his own farm, especially after stepping down from office. This hands-on involvement was rooted in his belief that agriculture could drive Ghana’s self-sufficiency, inspiring many Ghanaians to embrace farming as a livelihood.

Internationally honoured environmental advocate

Rawlings was passionate about environmental conservation. As Ghana’s ambassador to the African Union on climate change, he worked tirelessly to promote sustainable practices. His environmental contributions earned him respect beyond Ghana.

Football and boxing enthusiast

Jerry John Rawlings was a passionate fan of football, supporting the Accra Hearts of Oak club and the Ghana Black Stars. He was also an enthusiast of boxing and frequently attended boxing matches. Additionally, he had friendships with various coaches, including the late Sam Arday.

Reporting by Abigail Teye in Accra

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